Buyer / Planner

Company Overview

Founded in 1945 and located in Lockport, NY, First Products is a leading global provider of mobile computing and diagnostic solutions that builds long-term relationships within and outside our company by encouraging a culture built on trust, creativity, compassion and accountability. We have a tech start-up atmosphere of constant innovation and a family friendly work environment with competitive benefits.

Job Summary

The Buyer/Planner is responsible for managing the procurement and planning of materials to ensure that inventory levels meet production and operational needs, especially within a custom (make-to-order) and inventory (make-to-stock) environment. This position plays a critical role in supporting on-time delivery (OTD) goals, minimizing costs, and maintaining optimal stock levels.

Purchasing & Procurement

• Issue, monitor, and expedite purchase orders; resolve delivery or quality issues.
• Negotiate pricing, contract terms, and delivery schedules with vendors and suppliers to secure favorable agreements and drive cost savings.
• Identify and qualify new suppliers and maintain strong working relationships with existing vendors.
• Expedite or defer orders as necessary to align material deliveries with the production schedule.
• Obtain and analyze quotes for new or modified items; assist in cost analysis and sourcing recommendations.
• Occasionally travel to vendors (mostly local).

Planning and Inventory Control

• Analyze sales forecasts, historical data, and customer ordering trends to predict future material demand.
• Utilize the MRP/ERP system to create, review, and maintain attainable and effective production schedules for custom and stock products.
• Manage and maintain optimal inventory levels, setting appropriate safety stock and reorder points to prevent shortages or excess stock, and meet inventory turnover goals.
• Lead or assist with cycle counts and physical inventories to ensure inventory accuracy.

Coordination and Analysis

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams (Production, Engineering, Sales, Finance) to ensure alignment on material availability and business goals.
• Track and report on key performance indicators (KPIs) such as on-time delivery (OTD), Purchase Price Variance (PPV), and forecast accuracy.
• Resolve supplier issues related to delivery, quality, and invoicing discrepancies.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives in procurement and planning processes (e.g., Lean practices) to enhance efficiency.

Confidentiality

The Buyer may be exposed to confidential company information relating to vendor/customer relationships, products, organizational growth strategies and company strategic plans. A high degree of confidentiality is required.

Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Operations, Business Administration, or a related field or relevant experience preferred.
• Experience: 3-5 years of related experience in purchasing, planning, or scheduling, preferably in a manufacturing environment.
• Strong negotiation and communication skills.

Extensive experience using ERP software (Oracle, SAP or similar product). Syteline experience preferred

Proficiency in Microsoft Office.

Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and specifications.

Physical Requirements/Work Environment

This is an on-site position. The physical requirements of the job in an office environment, including, but not limited to the following: prolonged sitting while operating computer and office equipment, occasional walking, minimal lifting and reaching. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $60,000.00 - $80,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person